A former police officer who sent 'unwanted sexual messages' has been found guilty of gross misconduct, in a final hearing.

Former PC Stephen Yeates was still a Wiltshire Police officer in February 2024, when he met with an individual off-duty through a mobile dating app.

Over the course of a week, the officer was 'found to be offensive and acted in a sexually inappropriate manner' towards the individual both in person and via messages.

This included sending unwanted messages and a video clip.

The former officer then resigned in August 2024.

In a gross misconduct hearing, held between Tuesday, September 3 and Wednesday, September 4 at Wiltshire Police Headquarters in Devizes, it was concluded that if he had not resigned, PC Yeates would have been dismissed without notice.

“The behaviour displayed by former PC Yeates falls short of the very high standards we expect of both officers and staff, on and off duty," said Deputy Chief Constable Craig Dibdin.

"We are extremely grateful to the witness in this case who assisted us with our investigation into his behaviour.  

“I would like to underline the importance of officers upholding high standards of behaviour at all times and would urge members of our communities to report any concerns where they believe the behaviour of our officers and staff has fallen short.”

Assistant Chief Constable, Deb Smith concluded that the actions of former PC Stephen Yeates breached the Standards of Professional Behaviour for police officers for authority, respect and courtesy and equality and diversity.

The former officer has now been placed on the barred and advisory list.